Modern Xiaomi smartphones running on the shell of MIUI or the new HyperOS can accumulate software debris over time, causing the system to slow down. Sometimes the device begins to behave unpredictable after a failed update or install an incompatible application. In such situations, the only right solution is a complete return to the original state, which eliminates software errors.
The memory cleanup and configuration reset procedure requires careful preparation, as it permanently deletes all user information. Hard Reset will return the gadget to the state it was when you bought it in the store. It is important to understand the difference between a simple reboot and a complete cleanup so that you do not lose important contacts or photos.
In this guide, we will take a look at all the recovery methods available, from standard system settings to the Recovery Engineering Menu, how to properly prepare your device, what steps to follow to successfully clean up, and how to avoid locking your account after the procedure.
Preparation of the device before resetting settings
Before any manipulation of system files is initiated, it is critical to back up the data. Once the reset function is activated, it will be impossible to restore deleted photos, instant messengers and documents without a pre-built backup. Xiaomi’s built-in tools allow you to save data to the cloud or to an external medium.
Make sure the battery is at least 50-60%. Interrupting the cleaning process due to battery discharge can damage the system partitions and turn the smartphone into a “brick”, it is also recommended to remove the microSD card and Sim card, so as not to accidentally format their contents.
☑️ Checklist of preparations
Pay special attention to the Mi Account. If you don't remember the password, you'd better try to restore access before reset, otherwise, after cleaning, the system will require authorization from the last account used for security purposes, and without a password, logging in will be extremely difficult.
Method 1: Reset via the system settings menu
The safest and easiest method is available directly from a working operating system, which is suitable if you can unlock the screen and get into the main menu. The algorithm of actions may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI or HyperOS, but the overall logic remains the same.
To start, go to Settings and find About Phone. At the bottom of the screen or in the optional menu (three dots in the corner), select Reset option. The system will offer two options: clear all data or only delete applications and files, leaving the media.
- 📱 Select “Erase all data” for complete cleanup.
- 🔒 Enter the screen unlock password or pattern lock.
- ⏳ Wait for the process to finish, which can take 5 to 15 minutes.
Once confirmed, the smartphone will restart and start the formatting process. Don't interrupt this process or try to turn the device off. The screen can go out and light up several times, which is normal for the system to reset the factory settings.
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Before resetting via the settings menu, turn off the Find Device feature in the Mi Cloud if you plan to transfer the phone to another owner so that you do not have activation problems.
Method 2: Hard Reset with Recovery Mode
If your smartphone is stuck on the logo, doesn't respond to touch, or you've forgotten your pattern lock, you'll need to use Recovery Mode, a special diagnostic mode built into the firmware that allows you to control the system bypassing the main interface, and you'll log in with a combination of physical buttons when the device is off.
Turn off the smartphone completely. Then press the Volume Up button and the Power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then release the power button, but keep the volume up. The screen will show a menu with a black or gray background, where the navigation is done by the volume buttons and the choice by the power button.
⚠️ Attention: In the Recovery menu, the touch screen is not working. All actions are performed only with physical volume (up/down) and power (select) buttons).
Using the volume buttons, go down to Wipe Data and press the power button for confirmation. Then select Wipe All Data and confirm the action by selecting Confirm. After cleaning, select Reboot to start the system again.
What to do if the Recovery menu doesn’t appear?
Method 3: Remote reset via Google or Mi Cloud
In situations where a device is lost or stolen, but it has Internet and geolocation enabled, you can reset remotely, this allows you to protect personal data from unauthorized persons. Xiaomi owners can access services from both Google and the manufacturer.
To use Google, go to android.com/find from any other device and log in with the same account. From the device list, select your smartphone and click Clear Device. Similar to i.mi.com for Mi Accounts.
| Parameter | Google Find My Device | Mi Cloud (Find Device) |
|---|---|---|
| Required account | Google Account | Mi Account |
| The Necessity of the Internet | Necessary (Wi-Fi or mobile network) | I'll be sure. |
| Additional functions | Location determination, lockdown | Sound signal, loss mode |
| Speed of implementation | Instantly with a network | Instantly with a network |
It is important to understand that remote reset is only possible while the phone is on and connected to the network. If the device is turned off, the command will be executed automatically the moment it first goes online.
Solving problems: forgotten password and account lock
One of the most common issues after a reset is requiring you to enter a password from a Google account or Mi Account that was used on the device before, which is a FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection mechanism designed to make it harder to use stolen phones.
If you forget your password, you can restore access through a restoration procedure on the Google or Xiaomi website from another device, enter a phone number or backup email associated with your account, without this step, you will not be able to unlock the phone legally.
⚠️ Attention: Bypassing the lock FRP using third-party software can violate the warranty and lead to unstable operation of the system.
In some cases, if the phone is not connected to Wi-Fi, you can try bypassing the welcome screen by inserting a Sim card and activating the mobile internet to send a confirmation code to the linked number.
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Remember: Resetting does not remove your account’s association with your device on Google or Xiaomi servers, so you will still need a password to log in.